Ofsted Archive

21 December 2017

Dear Parent/Carer/Guardian

You will recall the Academy was inspected by OFSTED on 5 and 6 December, we have today received the report. The school has been given an overall judgement of “requires improvement”, with key areas highlighted as needing attention.

This is clearly a very disappointing outcome but I wish to reassure you that measures are in place to bring about the necessary improvements swiftly.

We remain a strong and popular school, with a great deal to be proud of. Our 2017 examination results show that the vast majority of our pupils are performing well and the school improved from 2016 in all areas of progress and attainment. Current year 11 progress is strong, as it is across all other year groups.

Overall attendance remains in line with national averages. However, the persistent absence and progress of the disadvantaged and those pupils with special educational needs/disabilities are key amongst the areas we will act upon quickly to bring about necessary improvements, as highlighted in the report.

We take issue with some aspects of the report’s findings and we have raised these with OFSTED. However, I and all the staff fully accept that progress must be made in specific areas to ensure all our pupils receive the best education possible.

Along with the governors, we are all fully committed to meeting the challenges underlined in this report. Measures, already in place ahead of the inspection, are beginning to bring about improvements and we will redouble our efforts to accelerate that progress.

From the New Year we will, of course, keep all parents updated as to the progress towards the key issues. As ever, I and all staff are happy to discuss any specific concerns parents have about the education of their children. A copy of the report is available from our website or contact reception if you require a hard copy.

You can be assured that educational provision at Hummersknott is secure and will advance swiftly in response to this report.